Connecting A Generator To A Home

Planning and Installing a Generator with a Transfer Switch: How should I install the wiring to connect a generator to my home? How to Connect a Generator to a Home.

Installing a Generator and Transfer SwitchElectrical Question: How should I install the wiring to connect a generator to my home?

I have a new 5000watt generator I plan to install in my home.

I have purchased a 7500watt, 10 circuit transfer switch and a weather tight power inlet box.

I have a couple of questions about installing my generator and transfer switch.

Can I do the wiring myself, and is a permit required?

If I use 10-4 Romex, can I just run it from the Power Inlet Box through the wall to the Transfer Switch?

This electrical question came from: Bob, a Homeowner from Pollock Pines, California.
Additional Comments: Very well thought out and organized.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Bob.

How to Connect a Generator to a Home

Application: Installing a Home Generator.
Skill Level: Advanced – Best installed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Electricians pouch of hand tools and the various power tools necessary for installing the generator and transfer switch.
Estimated Time: Depends on the type and size of the generator and transfer switch and the available access to the project area.
Precaution: Any existing electrical wiring within the immediate area that may interfere with the installation of the transfer switch may need to be relocated if necessary.
Important: Installing a generator and transfer switch requires planning and the application of electrical codes that will apply to the specific project. The project must be well thought out and performed with a permit, and all work must be inspected.

Note: If your home has sustained damaged from a storm then be sure that home repair work has been authorized and coordinated through your local or state building authorities. Contact your homeowners insurance provider for specific information relating to the home repairs. Detailed photos should be taken to document any damage.

Planning and Installing a Generator with a Transfer Switch

Generator Installation

First, begin by checking with your local county to see if you can install the generator and transfer switch yourself.

I am familiar with your county and I believe they will allow you to do the work yourself but yes, you will need a permit and inspection.

Generator Transfer Switch

The local electrical utility provider is very serious about generators and transfer switches being installed right, and you want the circuit wiring that takes care of your essential home generator circuits to be functional as well.

Generator Circuits

As for installing 10/4 Romex through the wall, this will depend on if the cable will be protected or not which is the concern here.

It’s always a good idea to use flex conduit to make sure the wiring is protected.

Generator Capacity

In all you preparation and planning for your generator set up just keep in mind that the limitation is based on the size of your generator and the type of generator that you purchase.

More about Home Generators and Electrical Wiring

This series covers a wide variety of topics all about home generators including sizing, selecting, connecting and safely operating this all important addition to your home.

Electrical CircuitsElectric Circuit Listing
The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tip

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester, [amazon.com], I use for the detection of Standard Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

Hi Bill,
I’m installing a generator inlet box on the exterior of my garage. There is an exterior water faucet about a foot from the ground. How far away from the faucet should I install the inlet box? Thanks.

I want to run my portable generator about 10 feet in front of my garage. Can I install the flanged power inlet inside the garage (connected ro the transfer switch by Romex run inside the wall), or is this against code and needs to be installed outside the house? I live in CT.
Plugging the extension cord inside the garage would be safer (dry) but I don’t know if allowed.

Hi Victor,
With all the generator panels and transfer switches installations I have done I have always located to receptacle for the generator cord on the outside near the generator. As you nay know, a generator may not be located indoors for a number of reasons, most of all carbon monoxide and locating the generator receptacle indoors could be misleading. Ask the question to your local building department when you obtain your permit to be sure.
Dave

I’m about to install a generator transfer switch with an outside power outlet for the generator using 10-4 SO wire which will run along sheetrock on the inside of the garage wall for 6 or 7 feet. Should this wire be run in conduit or is it possible it will overheat if it is? Thanks.

Hi Bill,
If the 10-4 SO Cable will be permanently installed then it would be best to protect it with EMT or PVC conduit which is strapped and supported. To prevent overheating, the size of the conduit should provide the same amount of free air space as the size of the 10-4 cable.
Dave